Austin Bar Shooting Investigated as Potential Act of Terrorism

At least two people were killed and 14 injured in a shooting outside Buford’s, a bar in Austin, Texas, early Sunday, March 1, 2026. The suspect, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalized U.S. Citizen born in Senegal, was shot and killed by police at the scene, according to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis.

FBI Investigating Potential Terrorist Link

The FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism. Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran, from the FBI’s San Antonio office, stated that there were “indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate a potential nexus to terrorism,” but cautioned it was too early to determine a precise motivation . Doran declined to specify the nature of these elements.

Details of the Shooting

The shooting occurred near Buford’s bar on West Sixth Street in downtown Austin around 2:00 a.m. Local time. The suspect initially drove by the bar in an SUV, firing a pistol at people on the patio and pavement . He then parked the vehicle, exited with a rifle, and continued shooting at pedestrians before being confronted and killed by three police officers .

The SUV was searched and found not to contain explosives . Of the 14 people hospitalized, three were in critical condition as of Sunday morning .

Suspect’s Background and Possible Motives

According to two sources familiar with the investigation, the suspect was wearing a sweatshirt with the words “Property of Allah” . An Iranian flag and pictures of Iranian leaders were found at the suspect’s home during a search warrant execution . A Quran was also found in the suspect’s vehicle .

Investigators are exploring whether the suspect was influenced by extremist ideology and if there is a connection to international terrorism, even as also noting the suspect had prior mental health episodes in Austin .

Increased Security Alert

Following Israeli-American strikes against Iran, FBI Director Kash Patel had already directed counter-terrorism and intelligence teams to be on high alert and mobilize security resources .

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the rapid response of police officers and emergency medical personnel, stating it “made a difference and saved lives” .